Monsoon season ups the risk of mudslides

COSTILLA COUNTY — Now that the monsoons are probably starting in the Valley, individuals living in the Spring Fire burn scar area should stay alert.

According to Chris Rodriguez, emergency manager for Costilla County, “At this time we don’t want to have people evacuate the Forbes Park or Wagon Creek areas because they are already higher than the exit roads.  I would rather have them in their houses where they are safe and secure than sending them out into a dangerous situation.”

Rodriguez said, however, the biggest key is to stay out of flowing water on a roadway. People should remember the saying, “turn around, don’t drown.” Most flood deaths occur in vehicles he said.

“Water can cause more damage to roads than you think,” which cannot be seen due to flowing water.

People should also have a 72-hour disaster emergency kit, including any medicines for both humans and pets. The kits should also include a portable radio with extra batteries, a first aid kit, 72-hours of food and water. He estimates each person needs to have one gallon to drink or cook with per day. Don’t forget extra formula and diapers if there is a baby in the household.

Rodriguez explained that when his office is notified by the National Weather Service in Pueblo of either a watch or warning, he alerts the Colorado State Patrol to send out a reverse 911 notification to the affected area.

However, Rodriguez added that to receive reverse 911 calls, individuals need to sign to for them. “This is important not only for folks in our burn scar but the entire San Luis Valley.  It’s easy to do as well, go to www.slve911.org and sign up,” he added.

Alerts are also posted on the Costilla County Emergency Manager Twitter page at www.twitter.com/costilla_oem.

Another useful tool is to download the Federal Emergency Manager Administration app for smartphones. “It will provide the warnings as well, you just have to go in and add your location,” Rodriguez commented.

When alerts come out, a watch means be prepared, something may happen soon. While a warning means take action, something is occurring, and there is an imminent danger to life and limb, Rodriguez stressed.